Tribeca Film Festival: The must-see 'RISE: The Siya Kolisi Story' is headed to NYC

Black excellent, much? You bet. Roc Nation knows how to properly give people their flowers and proves it with its RISE: The Siya Kolisi Story documentary being slated to arrive at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival.

Roc Nation’s must-see Siya Kolsi documentary is coming

Is it June yet? The film centered on the first Black South African rugby captain’s journey to winning the World Cup is set to officially premiere at the annual event June 12.

oday, award-winning athlete, entrepreneur and philanthropist Siya Kolisi announced that his documentary “RISE - The Siya Kolisi Story,” which chronicles his journey as the first black, South African rugby captain who overcame the odds to lead his national team to win the 2019 World Cup, is set to world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 12.

The documentary is more than a sports story and pulls back the curtain on Kolisi’s tumultuous upbringing in South Africa, where he navigated through poverty, systemic racism from apartheid, neighborhood violence and a complex relationship with his father.

Rugby became Kolisi’s refuge as he honed his craft, becoming the first-ever, Black captain of South Africa’s national team in its 126-year history as well as one of the greatest superstars of his generation. In the process, Kolisi’s leadership on and off the pitch inspired a country that had been plagued by decades of segregation and injustice.

“I’m truly honored to be sharing my story with millions around the world,” said Siya Kolisi. “I hope my journey inspires people to chase their dreams and reminds others to never allow adverse circumstances to define our lives. We are more than products of our environments and we have the potential to change our respective narratives.”

RISE - The Siya Kolisi Story was written and directed by Tebogo Malope, an award-winning filmmaker who most recently directed a documentary series on the launch of the NBA's Basketball Africa League that included appearances from President Barack Obama and J. Cole. Roc Nation Sports International has represented Kolisi since his historic World Cup win in 2019, having shepherded his professional and personal career endeavors. Most recently, Kolisi was featured on CBS’ iconic program, 60 Minutes, where they highlighted his life story as well as his plans to create meaningful change in South Africa.

The Tribeca Film Festival premiere of RISE - The Siya Kolisi Story comes shortly after Kolisi was awarded the National Order of Ikhamanga, a prestigious award bestowed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that recognizes citizens who excel in sports, arts, culture, literature, music, and journalism. In recent years, Kolisi released his best-selling autobiography, RISE, and has also been designated as the UN Global Advocate for Spotlight Initiative, nominated as a BBC Sports Star of the Year, honored as the SA Rugby Player of the Year and recognized by Forbes Africa in 2021 as one of the 100 most influential Africans. He also co-founded The Kolisi Foundation with his wife Rachel Kolisi that is committed to changing narratives of inequality in South Africa.

“Siya is an embodiment of resilience, patience and determination,” President of Roc Nation Sports International Michael Yormark said. “We are beyond thrilled to premiere this powerful documentary at the Tribeca Film Festival and help tell Siya’s inspirational story. He has shattered barriers to become a global icon and is continuing to leave an impactful legacy for the next generation.”

Roc Nation Executive Vice President of TV & Film Lori York is spearheading global distribution conversations and sales negotiations with partners for RISE - The Siya Kolisi Story. Jon Day and Vincent Mai executive produced the film alongside Yormark and York, who served as consulting producers.